85 Head Gasket Replacement??

[85LEE]

Should the average shade tree mechanic attempt to replace the head gaskets on an '85?? I have the shop manual, so that should provide the basic step by step instructions. Any comments, ideas or suggestions would be helpful. Thanks!

 

[taegdh]

No different from doing any other head gasket replacement, just RTFD!

Take your time, no need to go like a wild man to a whore house!

Use Quality replacements!

Enjoy yourself!

 

[rrubel]

Actually, I was surprised how easy it was to get the heads off my 86. Everything is reasonably accessible with the right tools and there aren't any real tricks.
[RICHR]

 

[jester]

Take pictures and label things as you're taking it apart. They will be helpful when reassembling.

 

[86PACER]

If you have the proper tools required, a confortable place to do it(preferably a garage away from weather), and another car to get arround on, yes. That shop manual is a plus. I agree with taking photos and labeling all hoses, harnesses, ect. with tape and a maker for ease of installation. Keep everything organized. Expect to take an entire weekend at the very least if this is your first time. Even more if you find other probems and/or get caught up with any "might as well do this while it's apart" projects such as new radiator hoses, Throttle body cleaning, degreasing engine bay, ect. Be sure to relieve the fuel pressure per the Shop Manual before you tear into the motor. I've done this several times by myself on my 86 and it gets easier with each time you do it. Like previously posted, there are no real tricks. Just read the Shop Manual prior to get an idea of what needs to be removed, what can stay, and what kind of hand tools you will need to do the job.
Be sure not to drop any fasters, sockets, ect. into the holes in the lifter valley. That is a sure way to ruin your day. Place clean rags in all open areas of the lifter valley to prevent anything from falling into the engine. Keeping everything labeled and fasterners and small items in plastic zip lock bags is the key.

Be sure to apply the techniques in the link below to guarantee a leak free intake manifold installation upon reassebly. There are few things more frustrating than to find an intake manifold oil leak and have to pull the intake manifold off all over again to re-seal it. Do it right the first time.

http://corvetteforum.com/techtips/viewsubtopic.php?SubTopicID=266&TopicID=5